Allegheny Onion
Allium cernuum
Amaryllidaceae · perennial · native
Last updated
As of March 31, 2026, soil temperature at Kent / Auburn is 47.7°F. Allegheny Onion, hardy to Zone Zones 4a–8b, is in early-season conditions in Zone 8b.
Nodding onion is a native perennial bulb found across much of North America, recognized by its distinctive nodding flower clusters of pink, lavender, or white bell-shaped blooms from June to August. The slender, grass-like foliage is aromatic when crushed. It reaches eight to eighteen inches tall and naturalizes readily in well-drained soils.
Grow in partial to full sun in well-drained soil. Tolerates a range of conditions from rocky slopes to meadow edges. Drought-tolerant once established. Useful in rock gardens, native plant borders, and pollinator plantings. The nodding flower heads distinguish it from other ornamental alliums.